Frequently Asked Questions?

Our FAQs are answering most of the common questions related to the Avant Now Accelerator. If you have any additional questions, feel free to reach out to us at startup@avant-now.com.

What is the Avant Now Accelerator program?

Our accelerator program is a fixed-term, cohort-based program that includes mentorship, educational components, networking activities to accelerate growth. It culminates in a public pitch event or demo day. The Avant Now Accelerator program runs 6 to 12 months and is based on a unique skill-growth qualification approach, which is individualized for each participant catering their specific needs and offering high flexibility.

Who can apply for the Avant Now Accelerator program (eligibility)?

The Avant Now Accelerator program is designed for early-stage startups that already have a prototype or MVP and are ready to scale their business. We look for ambitious innovators that aim to build sustainable ecological or social impact.

This opportunity is for you, if:

You are based in Berlin or ready to move here.
You are either about to be ready to incorporate, eg. proven by a tested MVP or if your startup already exists it did not yet generate revenues and is not yet economically active.
You did not yet receive other startup funding/grant. (This means, we can not support you, if you received eg. Berlin Startup Grant or Exist before.)

* Further eligibility criteria apply, for more detail please check FAQ by the Senate of Berlin. A full eligibility assessment will be part of the selection process.

As we celebrate diversity, we especially care about empowering founders from underrepresented groups to achieve their highest potential. At avant now we are deeply committed to fostering an inclusive environment that breaks down barriers and opens up opportunities for founders of all backgrounds, ensuring their ideas, talent, and dedication are recognized and nurtured.

What does the application process involve?

The application process involves completing an online application form where we ask about your idea, impact, business model and team. Selected applicants will be invited for a first interview round. From these, selected applicants are invited to the next interview round. In each interview you are asked to present your idea with a pitch deck in max. 5 min, followed by detailed questions.

When is the application deadline?

As we open a new cohort every three months, there is no fixed application deadline. The first cohort starts 1.9.2023, then 1.12.2023, 1.3.2024, 1.6.2024, and 1.9.2024. All applications received 1.5 months before a cohort start, joins the selection process.

What is the duration of the program?

Our accelerator program runs for 6 months and is expendable to up to 12 months.

What type of support will my startup receive?

Startups receive a mix of support including equity-free funding up to 105.000 Euro per team, coaching, mentorship, peer-learning, office space, networking events, and a workspace at Machwerk Co-Working in Berlin Mitte, close to Alexanderplatz. The Avant Now Accelerator program is based on a unique skill-growth qualification approach, which is individualized for each participant and offers highest flexibility.

Is there funding involved? If so, how much?

Yes, we do provide equity-free funding up to 105.000 Euro per team. The exact amount varies and depends on the number of founders and the length of the participation in the accelerator.

What equity stake does the accelerator take?

The Avant Now Accelerator does not take any equity, as the program is financed by the City of Berlin and the European Social Fund. Instead you commit to focusing fulltime on the development of your startup and to report on your progress.

Where is the program located? Is it virtual or in-person?

Our Avant Now Accelerator program is located in Berlin, Germany. You have to be officially registered in Berlin latest by the day of signing the contract. Some program elements can be realized virtually. Hence we call it a hybrid program.

What happens after the program ends?

After the program, our commitment to supporting your startup continues. We provide ongoing mentorship, networking opportunities, and follow-on funding support. Former participants are encouraged to share their experiences and expertises with new participants, as well as continuing on their peer-learning groups.

Can I join the Avant Now Accelerator without a fully formed team or co-founder?

While we prioritize teams with at least two co-founders, we evaluate all applications on their merits. A strong solo founder may still be accepted.

What industries or verticals does the Avant Now Accelerator program focus on?

Our accelerator is sector-agnostic, but impact focussed. We accept startups from a variety of industries and verticals as long as they align with our program's mission and objectives, which are all about building net-positive impact on society and the environment. Whether your focus is on securing and enhancing the quality of essential resources such as air, water, soil, energy - or addressing societal challenges such as aging, education, social inclusion, and health - we've got you covered and are always open on new topics.

How about diversity?

We celebrate diversity and care about empowering founders from underrepresented groups to achieve their highest potential. At avant now we are deeply committed to fostering an inclusive environment that breaks down barriers and opens up opportunities for founders of all backgrounds, ensuring their ideas, talent, and dedication are recognized and nurtured.